Subcutaneous mastectomy plays a major role in female to male (FtM) gender affirming surgery, and obtaining a flattering chest contour remains a challenge to the surgeon. We present an operative method using a dermal nipple-areola complex (NAC) flap, with the aim to create a naturally masculine appearance, while reducing the risk of NAC complications by maintaining sufficient neurovascularisation. This case report describes how the novel approach may potentially be applied as an alternative to the traditionally performed free nipple graft technique in FtM gender confirming surgery. The technique is simple, provides an aesthetically appealing outcome and presumably poses a low risk of NAC complications. Intraoperatively, it allows for good exposure and a uniform removal of breast tissue, as well as repositioning and/or resizing of the NAC where required.

Background:Subcutaneous mastectomy (SCM) plays a major role in female-to-male (FtM) gender affirming surgery, and obtaining a flattering chest contour remains a challenge to the surgeon. We present an operative method using a dermal nipple-areola-complex (NAC) flap with the aim to create a naturally masculine appearance, while reducing the risk of NAC complications by maintaining sufficient neurovascularization.Methods:Through a horizontal incision, a superior thoracic full skin flap was elevated at the dissection plane for mastectomy. The mastectomy was continued inferiorly, creating an inferior flap including the NAC. The surface of the inferior flap was deepithelialized, secluding the NAC, which allowed the inferior dermal flap to be inserted posterior to the superior flap. A circular defect was created in the superior flap, into which the NAC was sutured.Results:The surgery delivered satisfactory results with an aesthetically pleasing masculine appearance and a high level of patient satisfaction. We were able to place the horizontal scars inferiorly along the pectoral muscles, which enabled some camouflage. Additionally, the inferior flap provided a uniform filling effect to the chest, further contributing to the male aesthetic. There were no NAC complications.Conclusion:The dermal NAC flap method could be applied as an excellent alternative to the traditionally performed free nipple graft technique in FtM gender confirming surgery. The method is simple, provides an aesthetically appealing outcome, and poses a low risk of NAC complications. Intraoperatively, it allows for good exposure and a uniform removal of breast tissue, as well as repositioning and/or reduction of the NAC where required.

The anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is widely used in the reconstruction of a variety of soft tissue defects. Descriptions of patients with severe obesity in the literature are scarce. We report a case where a reverse pedicled fasciocutaneous ALT flap was successfully used for resurfacing of a knee defect measuring 12×6 cm in a patient with a body mass index (BMI) of 47.3. The flap was supercharged to the greater saphenous vein to optimise flap survival. Reconstruction of the soft tissue of the knee was achieved as planned. There were no flap or donor site complications.